§ Mr. CHARLES BATHURSTasked whether it is proposed, prior to the commencement of the breeding season this year, to give any intimation through the county committees, or otherwise, to existing or intending horse-breeders as to the price to be paid for remount horses at three years off, as to the number required 1688W annually by the War Office, and as to the prospects of breeders finding a market for their produce?
§ Mr. HALDANEAs the hon. Member is aware, it will be some considerable time before the scheme matures, so far as concerns Army requirements, and it would be difficult to give an accurate forecast far ahead, as to numbers and prices; but we will do everything to see that breeders have such information as we can give as soon as possible.
§ Mr. MACMASTERasked what steps are being taken, or are in contemplation, by His Majesty's Government for the prompt supply of an adequate number of horses for military purposes, in view of the existing shortage, which is likely to increase owing to the general use of motor vehicles?
§ Mr. HALDANEBy the census taken by the police the numbers of horses available throughout Great Britain have been ascertained, and from these the quotas required from the various counties have been calculated, and county associations have been informed of the corresponding requirements in detail for the Regular Forces and the Territorial Force. In certain cases counties have undertaken experimentally a classification of the horses to meet these requirements, and, as the result of their reports, some important points of organisation are at present under consideration. I shall make a statement as to progress when the Estimates come before the House.